Today my computer stopped. Permanently.

As I watched my 2010 pic's re-load one by one onto my new laptop I was pleasantly reminded of the joyful experiences I was a part of during the year.

In July we vacationed on the Chesapeake Bay and enjoyed a week of sun, swimming, and song. My brother Peter sailed over from the western shore and we were able to take short day sails throughout the week. This image of my daughter Laura and I at the helm of Peter's boat represents a glimpse of the overall rest and relaxation during our week at the vacation house on Fishing Creek off the Little Choptank, 7 miles from Cambridge, MD.

Days later Laura and I canoed in the dark waters of the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge where we experienced a part of the 27,000 acre protected tidal marsh and witnessed all the beauty and nature it had to offer.

On the drive back we passed an endless sunflower farm with its 1000's of colorful florets reaching to the sky.

Ahhh, but all this was months ago. A more recent adventure was a hike I took with Mike on the morning of New Year's Eve. We drove to Rock State Park and walked around this popular distination and marveled at some of the distinct rock outcroppings.

Mike and I have been getting together for coffee every friday morning for the past 3 years. This Friday morning was a little different but still provided the opportunity to talk about family, work, fun, etc.... We both appreciate being able to bounce ideas and thoughts off each other and receiving valuable feedback and suggestions.

One comment Mike made was that these rocks have been around for 10's of thousands of years, weathered storms and bright sun, cold days and deep freezes, yet they still stand. While sitting on the top I felt the presence of 1000's of people that had been here before me, some recent and some so very long ago.

The rock formation (above) is now known as the King and Queen Seat and once served as a ceremonial gathering place of the Susquehannock Indians - until 1763 when they were finally wiped out by "... the white man's disease and tribal warfare..."

Now it serves as a very cool place to just relax. And only a very short drive from Baltimore.

2010 - thanks for the memories.

Weverton Cliffs, MD

This time of year is very busy, with Christmas less than one week away. So a little bit of clearing of the mind and excercise for the body does a whole lot of good.


On a cool and crisp day I decided to drive to the Harpers Ferry area and hike up Weverton Cliffs. The last time I did this was over 30 years ago when my brother Peter joined me and other friends and hiked the Maryland section of the apallachian trail. A lot has changed since then - age, body weight, and conditions. When I was 19 I hiked this with 50 lbs on my back, during the early spring days of April, and in 65 degrees. Now it's a day hike, the middle of december and in 25 degrees. What's remained the same is the peace and quiteness.


The hike to the top took 25 minutes. The trail was well marked and easy to follow. There were a total of 11 switchbacks, which sounds like it would make for a steep hike, but compared to Crabtree Falls, VA (which Darlene and hiked this past September) it was rather easy. Once at the top there was a blue blazed trail that went to the left and directed me to the actual cliff overlook.


The overlook was a fairly open space and quite beautiful and serene, even in winter. I could easily envision this being a beautiful spot for a spring or fall picnic. There weren't any tables but plenty of rocks that could act as great seating. The views of the potomac river with Harpers Ferry in the distance is well worth the trip.

And for those of you who would like to take this day hike, the driving and parking directions couldn't be easier: From Baltimore or Washington: Rt 70 west to 340 south to right on route 67 and go about 100 yards to right hand turn on Weverton Cliffs Road. A couple hundred yards later there is a parking lot on the right side. Park your car and walk to the T at the end of the road. there's a small wooden sign that says Appalachian Trail N with an arrow pointing to the beginning of the trail about 25 feet away.